Advent Reflection: Dec. 23, 2017

Seasonal Devotions

Scripture: Luke 1:67–80  (Today’s Readings)

The journey leading to Christmas is filled with periods of waiting, and, in this passage, we find ourselves at the end of one such period and in the middle of another.

After not believing God’s promise, Zechariah waits mutely for months until the promise is fulfilled in the form of a son. Zechariah breaks his silence, praising God for His mercy and promises of the past, and prophesying about God’s future gift of Jesus, for whom his son John will prepare the way. This marks the beginning of the end of a wait that began ages ago.

God shows us mercy and keeps His promises even when we don’t believe that He will. As we await the coming of Christ, may we look both to the past and to the future, rejoicing in the blessings we have received and trusting that God will be with us.

Prayer: Loving God, thank You for showing us Your mercy and shining Your light upon us, even when we fail to believe in Your promises. Guide us as we walk through this Advent season so that we may grow to be strong in spirit.  Amen.

Contributed by Emma R. Balaan, Deacon

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Artwork: Detail of No Between © Jan L. Richardson. janrichardson.com. Inspired by Isaiah 64:1: “O that You would tear open the heavens and come down … .”